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The requirements for will registration vary depending on the jurisdiction. Below are the general requirements and steps to register a will, with a specific focus on countries like the UAE. This can be adapted based on where you are registering the will.

General Requirements for Will Registration:

1. Drafting the Will:

• The will must be drafted according to the legal requirements of the jurisdiction where it will be registered. The document should clearly outline the testator’s (person creating the will) wishes regarding the distribution of their assets upon death.

2. Eligibility of the Testator:

• The testator must be:
  1. Over a certain age (usually 18 years or older).
  2. Of sound mind, meaning they must be fully aware of the implications of drafting the will and its contents.

3. Appointment of an Executor:

• The will must name an executor, the person responsible for ensuring the will's provisions are carried out after the testator’s death. This person can be a family member, lawyer, or trusted individual.

4. Witnesses:

• In most jurisdictions, the will must be signed in the presence of two or more witnesses, who are not beneficiaries under the will. These witnesses must also sign the will, verifying that the testator signed it willingly and in their presence.

5. Notarization (if required):

• In some jurisdictions, it’s not mandatory, but it is recommended to have the will notarized. A notary public will certify the identity of the testator and the witnesses, adding a layer of legal authenticity to the document.

UAE-Specific Will Registration Requirements:

The UAE has specific requirements based on whether the person registering the will is a Muslim or a non-Muslim. Non-Muslims can register their wills with the DIFC Wills and Probate Registry or the Abu Dhabi Wills Registry, depending on the emirate they live in.

For Non-Muslims:

• DIFC Wills and Probate Registry (Dubai):
  1. Eligibility: The testator must be non-Muslim, over 21 years old, and a resident or own assets in the UAE.
  2. Drafting the Will: The will must be drafted in English, specifying the distribution of assets, guardianship of children, and other matters.
  3. Witnesses: Two adult witnesses (not beneficiaries) must be present at the time of signing the will.
  4. Registration: The will must be registered in person at the DIFC Wills Registry. It can also be registered online through their platform.
• Abu Dhabi Wills Registry:
  1. Similar to the DIFC process, but tailored for non-Muslims living in Abu Dhabi.
  2. Online registration is available, or you can register at the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department.
  3. The will must also be signed before two witnesses and registered either electronically or in person.

For Muslims:

• Sharia Law typically governs the distribution of assets for Muslims in the UAE. Muslims generally do not need to register a will unless they want to allocate up to one-third of their estate differently, in which case it must be within the confines of Islamic law.

Other Documentation Required for Registration:

• Identification Documents:
  - A valid passport or Emirates ID for the testator and witnesses.
• Details of Assets:
  - A list of the assets and properties that the testator owns (optional but recommended to provide detailed instructions).
• Payment of Fees:
  - There are registration fees involved, which vary depending on the jurisdiction (e.g., the DIFC Wills Registry charges based on the type of will being registered).

General Steps for Will Registration:

• Prepare the Will:
  - Ensure the will is properly drafted, following all legal guidelines.
• Sign the Will:
  - Sign the will in the presence of witnesses and a notary if required.
• Submit the Will:
  - Submit the will for registration at the relevant registry (DIFC, Abu Dhabi, local courts, etc.).
• Receive the Certificate:
  - Once registered, the registry will issue a certificate confirming that the will has been properly recorded.

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• - 25 Years of Experience: A legacy of excellence and trust.
• - Global Reach: Services are available in several countries.
• - Expert Team: Dedicated professionals will walk you through every step.
• - Comprehensive Services: Tailored solutions for all of your document attestation and company formation needs. Get Started Today! Contact us at+971 52 930 0200